"Offense wins games, defense wins championships." It is an often used quote, yet when it comes right down to it, the media and every day fan fail to appreciate defensive standouts and defensive minded teams, in favor or high flying dunks and 3 point shooters. Successful coaches however, will tell you that defense is truly what decides the outcome of most contests. As a coach for over 20 years myself, I can attest to this as being gospel truth, as there are some nights where the ball simply will not go in the basket. Defense can show up every night, because it is less about physical ability and more about technique and desire. Below are some basic concepts that will make you a better defensive player/team.

Vision-

You must be able to see your man and the ball at all times. The goal of defense is to keep the ball out of your basket. What good does it do your team if you are locked into the player you're guarding, and another opponent is laying the ball in? None. Therefore, vision of where the ball is, in relation to the player you are guarding is critical. Positioning yourself in such a way as to be between your man and the basket, while being able to point your fingers at "man and ball" simultaneously should get you in correct position. We use the word "triangle" to remind us that there should be somewhat of a flat triangle created if one was to draw a line from ball, to man to defender. This puts the defender in good position to "help" should the person with the ball get past a defender and attack the basket.

Ball Moves, You move-

Every time the ball moves, whether off the dribble or a pass, every defender should move in adjustment to ball/man position. By staying low with knees bent, almost as though one is sitting in a chair, the defensive player is quicker and less susceptible to fakes and misdirection. It is when players do not move when the ball moves that you see give and go's, or quick reversals for a shot, or drives to the basket without backside help from the defense.

Influence-

One should never approach an offensive player "squarely". This allows him/her to go either direction with a dribble or pass. Strong defensive teams influence or "force" or "push" ( both terms we use) the player to go a particular direction. This can vary based on personnel. If a team has a very tall, agile big man in the middle, they may want to "force" offensive players into the key area or the middle. This takes them into the defensive strength

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